DAF XD ‘future-proofs’ Grundon to 2030 and beyond

Operating throughout the UK, Grundon is the UKs largest family-owned waste collection and recycling company. The company is taking delivery of a range of XD models in the short-term, including multi-axle rigids for various operations, and four XD Electric 28-tonners for delivery in September. Stephen Townsend, Group Fleet Engineer at Grundon, confirmed the DAF XD and XD Electric will play an integral role in the company’s fleet.

“The XD is going to be a key vehicle for us,” he says, “it’s a truck that offers a robust platform for future technological development, offering exceptional visibility and safety features that are crucial for our urban operations. With their straight-out-of-the-box DVS ratings, the XD and XD Electric will future-proof the business, putting us in a really good place up to 2030 and beyond.”

The most recent DAF XD 450 eight-wheel 32-tonner with Boughton hook-loader bodywork was acquired by Grundon due to the XD’s ability to deliver a 4-Star Direct Vision Standard (DVS) rating ex-factory; credentials not possible with Grundon’s previous, yet very popular, DAF CF model. The XD 450 features DAF’s ‘FAD’ 8x4 axle configuration and a 10.8-litre, 450bhp engine.

Also on order are four zero-emissions DAF XD Electric 28-tonne GVW 6x2 rigids powered by 420-kW battery packs, for delivery in September. The DAF XD Electric quartet feature DAF’s ‘FAN’ 6x2 rear-steering axle set-up, achieving the maximum 5-Star DVS rating. Three further diesel-powered XD rigids are on order for 2025 including a three-seat skip-loader for use as a driver training vehicle. All new DAF vehicles are being supplied by DAF Dealer, Channel Commercials.

“The new XD eight-wheeler also marks an important return to DAF for us,” continues Townsend, “the truck’s 4-Star-rated direct vision is outstanding, especially with its well-appointed, big cab that drivers really appreciate. We’re really excited at the prospect of the DAF Electric models – they’re going to fit in seamlessly with our commitment to decarbonising our vehicle fleet. Importantly,” he adds, “Aftersales support from DAF and Channel Commercials is excellent. Their priority is to maintain uptime and keep our trucks on the road. It’s a true partnership.”